State Senator Brian Birdwell and State Representatives Charles “Doc” Anderson and Kyle Kacal answered questions from moderator Evan Smith, editor-in-chief of the Texas Tribune and former editor-in-chief of Texas Monthly, as well as members of the audience.

The Texas Tribune describes itself as “a nonpartisan, nonprofit media organization that promotes civic engagement and discourse on public policy, politics, government, and other matters of statewide concern.” Its “Hot Seat” series is held at universities across the state, aimed at encouraging interaction between Texas government officials and the people they represent.